The NSW Government is now considering whether there should be a new class of "cosmetic surgery" included in current laws, so that cosmetic procedures could only be undertaken in a licensed private health facility or hospital.

Changes could include mandatory cooling off periods for all patients before cosmetic surgery procedures, with a three-month cooling off period for all patients younger than 18, and mandatory assessment by a registered psychologist or psychiatrist.

Other changes could include explicit guidance on informed patient consent — including information about risks and possible complications — and explicit responsibility for post-operative care by the treating doctor, including emergency facilities when sedation or analgesia is involved.

Also on the table are mandatory face-to-face consultations before prescribing prescription-only cosmetic injectables such as Botox and detailed written information about costs and limits on where cosmetic procedures can be performed.

The Medical Board is likely to report back on possible changes early next year.